Session 4B - Exploring Resources to Promote Core Vocabulary

1:30 pm - 2:30 pm

Speaker: Rachel Smitheman & Melissa Hoy (Saltillo)


Session Description:
So, you have heard about core vocabulary, but what is it really? This session will provide an overview of core vocabulary along with several examples. We will discuss strategies to model core vocabulary and plan for communication opportunities throughout the day. Participants will complete planning tools and explore resources available online of implementation supports that are applicable across all core-based communication and systems.

Speaker Biographies:
Rachel Smitheman, M.S. is an experienced Assistive Technology Consultant who holds a degree in Social Studies with a Major in Psychology, a Minor in Linguistics from The University of Ottawa and McGill University, and a post-graduate diploma at Georgian College in Communication Disorders (CDA). Rachel has garnered international respect in the field of Assistive Technology during her 20+ years (4 years with Saltillo) of providing a multitude of AAC solutions for her clients.
image Rachel Smitheman

Melissa Hoy, ClinScD, CCC-SLP is a speech-language pathologist who has worked over 10 years in a variety of clinical settings, always with a special interest in augmentative and alternative communication. She completed her Doctor of Clinical Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions and has presented nationally on her research involving caregiver training in AAC.
image of Melissa Hoy